What United Natural Foods Employees Need to Consider Before Making the Leap to Retire Abroad

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for United Natural Foods United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) typically partners with major national health insurers for employee healthcare benefits. Although specific partnerships can vary over time and may depend on employee location and plan selection, large insurance providers such as UnitedHealthcare and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield are common choices among employers in the food distribution sector. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we head into 2026, United Natural Foods employees should brace for significant increases in healthcare costs. With the anticipated expiration of enhanced federal subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, many could see out-of-pocket premiums rise dramatically-by as much as 75% for some. Additionally, systemic medical inflation and rising pharmaceutical prices, particularly for specialty drugs, further exacerbate these cost pressures. As employers navigate this challenging landscape, a major shift in healthcare benefits is expected, with many companies likely to pass a greater share of expenses onto employees in an effort to mitigate rising healthcare expenditures. Click here to learn more

For example, United Natural Foods employees planning on moving overseas need to have a clear plan of action to overcome the challenges of acquiring residency and citizenship in another country,' according to Brent Wolf from The Retirement Group at Wealth Enhancement Group.

Kevin Landis of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, explains why detailed planning is crucial for United Natural Foods employees who intend to retire abroad. However,

In this article we will discuss:

1. The complexity of obtaining residency or citizenship abroad: Discussing the legal, financial, and cultural issues that are involved in moving overseas for United Natural Foods employees.

2. The necessity of professional advice and planning: Emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and professional advice to ensure a smooth transition to retiring abroad.

3. Tax advantages and financial planning for retirees: Explaining the possible tax advantages that are available through international treaties and the strategic financial planning that needs to be done for the retirement savings of United Natural Foods employees.

Simply for political, economic, and social reasons, many United Natural Foods employees are looking to secure citizenship or residency in other countries if the United States is not as attractive as it once was. But, getting residency in another country and, perhaps, citizenship is not as simple as just buying a plane ticket and setting an itinerary.

This is because there are many processes that may take a few years to accomplish at times. The more people who are considering these options, the more difficult these choices become. It is therefore crucial to identify the legal, financial, and cultural implications that arise in order to ensure a smooth transition to a new home overseas before embarking on this journey.

Without a proper plan and some professional advice, it can be quite a challenge to switch gears and retire during your tenure at United Natural Foods.

The impact of potential tax advantages when retiring abroad will definitely affect your financial position. Many countries, including the United States, have tax treaties that prevent income from being taxed twice. For instance, pensioners are attracted to Portugal by the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime that offers special tax concessions for up to 10 years.

You can enhance your retirement benefits by taking advantage of these perks and seeking the advice of a tax specialist. The IRS notes that because these treaties can be very different it is important to research and seek the advice of a professional (IRS, 2023). These advantages must be used by United Natural Foods employees to enhance their retirement.

Expatriating and retiring is a process of planning a long and beautiful road trip. Just as you would not travel without a map, a well-maintained car, and knowledge of your location, United Natural Foods employees who are retiring abroad need to plan carefully.

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Step by step, you will be guided on how to make your transition to your new home easier, from explaining cultural differences and tax benefits to helping you understand the legal and financial environment. Just as a road trip opens new views and experiences, retirement abroad presents a world of possibilities for a happy and comfortable retirement.

Sources:

1. The Warren Street Wealth Advisors Team. 'United Natural Foods and Large Company Employees.' Warren Street Wealth Advisors, 3 Feb. 2025, Accessed from warrenstreetwealth.com.

2. 'US Taxes for Americans Retiring Abroad in 2025.' MyExpatTaxes, 20 Nov. 2024, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from myexpattaxes.com.

3. Toms, Mary, CPA, MBA, MS. 'US Tax Implications of Retiring Abroad: What You Need to Know.' PBMares, 10 Dec. 2024, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from pbmares.com.

4. 'Financial Planning for US Expatriates.' The Expat Financial, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from expatfinancial.com.

5. 'Retiring Overseas: What You Need to Know About Your US Taxes and Financial Planning.' Expat CPA, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from expatcpa.com.

   What is the 401(k) plan offered by United Natural Foods?

   The 401(k) plan at United Natural Foods is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

   How can I enroll in the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan?

   You can enroll in the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan by accessing the employee portal and completing the enrollment process during the designated enrollment period.

   Does United Natural Foods offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

   Yes, United Natural Foods offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to boost your retirement savings.

   What is the maximum contribution limit for the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan?

   The maximum contribution limit for the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which may change annually. For 2023, the limit is $22,500 for employees under age 50.

   Can I change my contribution percentage to the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan?

   Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan at any time through the employee portal.

   What investment options are available in the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan?

   The United Natural Foods 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, to help employees diversify their retirement savings.

   When can I access my funds from the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan?

   You can access your funds from the United Natural Foods 401(k) plan upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship or termination of employment, subject to plan rules.

   Does United Natural Foods allow loans against my 401(k) balance?

   Yes, United Natural Foods allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

   What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave United Natural Foods?

   If you leave United Natural Foods, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the United Natural Foods plan if allowed.

   Is there a vesting schedule for the United Natural Foods 401(k) company match?

   Yes, United Natural Foods has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means you must work for a certain period before you fully own the matched contributions.